The Village Improvement Association’s third annual holiday gift-giving project this December proved wonderfully successful. Beneficiaries of the project are this area’s many displaced teens, and men and women in nursing homes who are alone.

VIA members contributed time, effort and funds to provide gifts and a holiday lift to the neediest citizens of the area, populations who are often overlooked at holiday time.

At the fundraising gathering Dec. 5, VIA Co-chair Carolyn Billingsley said the members responded with amazing generosity, raising more than $3,300. Local stores also offered discounts and donations. Walmart, KMart and Logo Motive Design were especially generous.

A group of 15 Brandywine and Renaissance senior residents who are without families were also remembered. All presents were presented in festive gift bags, and committee members distributed them in time for Christmas.

Members of the VIA, women from all walks of life, freely contribute time, dedication and concern to make the Cape Henlopen School District a wonderful place for all.